I got this idea from one of Martha Stewart's old holiday books. Each letter is a person's first name initial. They are made from xlarge sead beads that are clear wtih silver on the inside. Wire was 20 guage, I would have used 18 if I could find it, but I couldn't. Each letter is about 6 inches tall.

I think I may put a small red velvet ribbon on them for hanging, even though the book doesn't mention it. What do you think?

I think the red ribbon would be gorgeous with it. I have been looking for some type of initial thing for my nieces, and was planning on going with shrinky dinks, but I can't get it to look right. Those are just wonderful. Unfortunately I won't have time to get to a store to buy the needed stuff. Oh, well, maybe I will remember these for next year! GREAT job!

Use your favorite document processing software (Word, etc) to print off the initials you wish to make. Print them at the approximate size you wish the ornament to be (I think mine was about 375 font - Palace Script). Cut off a length of 20 guage wire, more than you think you need just to be safe. Use the needle nose pliers to form a small, closed loop on one end. String beads from the other end. Using your printed letters as a guide, bend the wire into the shape of the letter. Where the wire crosses itself or you have more than one wire, use the 30 guage wire to bind them together (she didn't give instructions on this, I just wrapped it many times). When you get to the end, form a small loop like you did at the beginning.

So simple! I did add a small red velvet ribbon for hanging and it looks very elegant. I also made one shaped like a baby bootie for some friends that are pregnant, and tied a blue bow on it since they're expecting a boy.